Lately, we've seen a growing number of unsettling incidents on roads worldwide, where individuals deliberately throw themselves at moving vehicles. Many believe these dangerous stunts are often linked to insurance scams or mental health crises, leaving road users caught off guard and at risk.
Photo via TikTok (@ozzeyfdez)
In Malaysia, a recent incident on the North-South Expressway near the Tapah rest and recreational area (R&R) has left motorists shaken. A TikTok video by netizen Ozzey Fdez captured a man standing in the middle of the southbound highway, shockingly throwing himself at passing cars.
Ozzey described the terrifying moment, saying, “He jumped in front of our car and others in the middle of the highway.”
The video shows the man blocking a vehicle ahead of Ozzey’s car, forcing it to slow down and carefully manoeuvre around him. As Ozzey attempted to drive past, the man leapt towards her vehicle. Fortunately, he missed, allowing her to escape the dangerous situation unharmed.
The video quickly gained traction online, with some netizens sharing similar encounters with the same individual. One commenter recounted, “Yes, last night while I was riding my motorcycle, I saw him blocking vehicles while saying, ‘hit lah, hit’. I stopped at the Behrang R&R and immediately reported him to the PLUS hotline. He’s endangering others.”
Speculation is rife about the man's motives, with many suggesting he could be attempting an insurance scam. These scams typically involve staged accidents where perpetrators deliberately put themselves in harm's way, aiming to claim compensation from unsuspecting drivers.
What to Do in a Situation Like This?
If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, here are some simple tips to stay safe:
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Stay Calm: Avoid sudden reactions that could lead to an accident.
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Slow Down and Keep Your Distance: If you spot someone behaving erratically on the road, maintain a safe distance.
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Avoid Confrontation: Do not engage with the individual. Keep your windows up and doors locked.
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Capture Evidence: If safe to do so, record the situation with your dashcam or phone.
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Report It: Contact the relevant authorities or the highway hotline immediately to prevent further incidents.
Remember, safety comes first—both for yourself and other road users.
